McArthur: Marine energy report requires urgent response from Scottish Ministers

4.09.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 28th Aug 2009

Orkney MSP and Liberal Democrat Environment spokesman, Liam McArthur, has written to the Scottish Government urging a swift response to the Marine Energy Group report that highlighted Scotland’s potential in the renewable energy sector.

The report concluded that more than 12,000 jobs in marine renewables could contribute £2.5 billion to Scotland's economy by 2020.

In his letter to Finance Secretary John Swinney, Mr McArthur calls on the Scottish Government to commit to building on the successful Wave and Tidal Energy Support scheme (WATES) that was introduced by the previous Executive.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

"The report prepared by the Marine Energy Group is a valuable and timely reminder of the contribution that this sector, including its supply chain, can make to the Scottish economy. It is worrying, therefore, that in his response to the report John Swinney showed signs of reverting to the SNP's default position.

"He appeared happy to blame London while conveniently overlooking the role that the Scottish Government can and must play in stimulating growth in the renewables industry.

"While the Saltire Prize has a role to play, this report shows that much more immediate action is necessary.

“Having access to a stable source of funding is crucial if Scotland’s reputation as a centre of excellence for marine energy is to be maintained. Thousands of green collar jobs across the country depend on it.

"The UK Government will certainly need to play a full part in achieving this. But the industry requires and expects Scottish Ministers to work collaboratively with their UK counterparts rather than use the industry as a political football.

"As a first step in showing that commitment, the Scottish Government should come forward as soon as possible with details of a second round of WATES funding.

"Industry experts agree that the scheme allows Scottish marine energy companies to grow and others to begin operations in Scotland.

“That is kind of investment Scotland needs to fulfil our renewables potential.”